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Can Dogs Eat Apples?

Can Dogs Eat Apples?

Updated on July 18, 2024
Reviewer Profile Photo
Reviewed by Petco’s Animal Care
Education and Compliance (ACE) Team

Yes, dogs can eat apples (but not the seeds). Before adding any new food to your pup’s diet, however, consult your vet to ensure it’s nutritionally appropriate for your pet.

Health benefits of apples for dogs

Are apples good for dogs? The answer is yes. 

Some of the benefits your dog may receive from eating apples as snacks or treats include:

  • Low in calories, so feeding them as an occasional treat shouldn’t negatively impact your pet’s weight, just like cucumbers
  • Excellent source of vitamins A and C
  • Excellent source of calcium and phosphorus
  • Excellent source of fiber, which can act as a prebiotic that may help support your dog’s gastrointestinal function. Too much fiber, however, can lead to diarrhea, so offer apples in moderation.
  • At 86% water, apples can be a great source of hydration
  • Apples can be part of your dog’s dental care routine, along with daily teeth-brushings, dental chews and regular dental checkups at the vet.

How to feed apples to your dog

When served appropriately, apples can be a nutritious and delicious snack for your dog. To prepare, wash the apple and remove the core, seeds and stem. You can peel the apple if you want, but unpeeled is also acceptable. Cut the apple into slices or chunks that are an appropriate size for your pup. 

» MORE: Learn about fruits and vegetables that dogs can and cannot eat.

Featured dog food and treats with apples 

FAQs about feeding your dog apples

Yes, dogs can eat apples. However, they cannot eat the seeds. Consult your vet for more information about your dog's unique dietary needs.

They can. Red, green or golden, the type doesn’t matter. An apple of any variety can make a wholesome treat for your dog.

No. Apple seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide, which is toxic for dogs to consume. Remove all seeds before serving the fruit to your pup.

Yes. Peeling the apple cuts down on the fiber, however, which may help ease digestion for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Apples contain sugar and should be served in moderation, but a slice or two can make a great occasional snack.. Start small when giving your dog any new treat or snack, and remember that the calories from treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. If your pup has diabetes, apples won’t be the best choice for them.

Adding a variety of good fruits may be better than serving apples every day. Rotate between other dog-appropriate fruit treats like bananas, watermelon and carrots.

For more information, check out our articles answering Can Dogs Eat Bananas? and Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?

Yes. Once the stem, core and seeds have been removed, an apple is best served raw in appropriately sized slices or chunks. Other options, like applesauce, often have added sugars that aren’t healthy for your dog to consume.

Apples can be a great snack for dogs, but their high fiber content can upset sensitive stomachs. If this is the case for your dog, try peeling the apple before serving. If digestive issues persist, ask your vet about other snack options.

Some fruits are not suitable for dogs to eat. These include, but are not limited to, grapes, raisins, avocados, unripe tomatoes, rhubarb and persimmons. When in doubt, consult your vet.

No. The middle of an apple is firm and challenging to chew and may present a choking hazard if swallowed. Remove the core, stem and seeds before chopping the apple into chunks or slices to give to your dog.

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